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The Global Language of Headwear
  • Introduction
  • Cultural Identity
  • Power, Prestige & Status
  • Ceremonies & Celebrations
  • Spiritual Beliefs
  • Protection
  • Credits

Bamileke Prestige Hat (Ashetu)

Photo credit: Matthew Hillman
While the style of Ashetus may vary according to the wearer’s clan, village, and personal preference, one must be a titleholder or man of high rank and prestige in order to wear one. The tufts on the hat were inspired by hairstyles appearing on carved masks and wooden figures. The height of this hat reinforces the chief’s lofty stature.

DETAILS

Country: Cameroon

Date: mid 20th century

Medium: cotton

Height: 18

Width: 10

Cultural Identity

Power,
Prestige
& Status

Ceremonies &
Celebrations

Spiritual
Beliefs

Protection

Current Location

The Citadelle Art Museum
Canadian, TX

Sep 15, 2020 – January 23, 2021

Tour Schedule

The Schingoethe Center of Aurora University, Aurora, IL
Mar 16, 2021 – May 21, 2021

Kalamazoo Valley Museum
Kalamazoo, MI

Jul 17, 2021 – Oct 24, 2021

Fullerton Museum Center
Fullerton CA

Nov 20, 2021 – Jan 16, 2022

Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, Wausau, WI
Dec 3, 2022 – Feb 26, 2023

© 2022 The Global Language of Headwear  |  Not for reproduction or reuse. Any unauthorized copying, alteration, distribution, transmission, performance, display or other use of this material is prohibited. All Rights Reserved to the lender.

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